FREE 2D CAD · OPTIONAL AI · BETA
CadFreely and FreeCAD are different tools.
The names sound similar, but the products serve different needs. CadFreely is an independent browser-based 2D drawing service. FreeCAD is a separate open-source parametric 3D modeler.
CadFreely: start in your browser
CadFreely focuses on 2D drawings: open a supported DWG or DXF, draw precise geometry, organize layers, edit properties and prepare a drawing for sharing or plotting. Its local drafting tools are free and do not require sign-in.
It is useful when you want to start a drawing or review a file on a computer, phone or tablet without installing a desktop CAD package. AI drafting and online storage are optional account features. Some functions require an internet connection.
FreeCAD: parametric 3D modeling
FreeCAD’s official website describes its open-source parametric 3D modeling approach. Model geometry can depend on editable properties and relationships. Its workbenches cover a broader set of modeling tasks.
If your objective is a parametric solid, manufacturing geometry or a workflow built around FreeCAD’s native project format, start with that product’s documentation and downloads. CadFreely does not claim those capabilities or compatibility with every FreeCAD file type.
Free CAD software is a category; FreeCAD is a product
“Free CAD” can mean any computer-aided design tool offered without a charge for its core tools. FreeCAD, written as one word in that order, names the separate open-source project. CadFreely reverses the words and names this browser-based editor. A similar name does not imply the same file support or modeling workflow.
For example, a measured room outline or a supported DWG edit can fit CadFreely's 2D workflow. A part whose solid shape must update from linked parameters is a reason to examine FreeCAD's parametric modeling features. Check a representative file and the required output before choosing either tool.
Choose by the output you need
- A quick 2D drawing or DWG/DXF review: try CadFreely with a copy of your file and check the result.
- A parametric 3D model: explore FreeCAD’s documented modeling tools and supported formats.
- A generated presentation image: CadFreely offers optional AI image features. An image is not an editable engineering model.
- A file to exchange with a client: verify the required format, units and object support in both the sending and receiving applications.
Free use and open source mean different things. CadFreely’s free CAD tools do not imply that its entire application is distributed as open-source software. FreeCAD is a separate open-source project.
Looking for the FreeCAD project?
Visit freecad.org for its official software, documentation and community. CadFreely is not affiliated with the FreeCAD project and is not a renamed edition of it.